Parents of Ysgol Maes Y Mynydd in Rhos have found that by learning together and sharing ideas with each other they’re able to deal with the challenges of busy family lives.
The members of the group meet up every week to take part in formal courses or to informally spend time together. The course work has included activities like upcycling crafts, forest school sessions and healthy cooking. All the courses are designed to improve individual wellbeing and family dynamics.
Many admitted before joining the group they’d felt nervous, “It was like starting a new job,” one said, describing the anxiety of not knowing anyone. But taking that first step paid off. “Coming here and seeing everyone is an important part of my routine now. I feel comfortable with the people here. I feel like if I didn’t come to the group, I’d miss the social each week.” Another member said, “it’s become part of my life. It gives me a chance to vent a bit.”
The members of the group said they signed up for a range of reasons. This included to build individual confidence and to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness. There were also those who wanted to learn specific skills such as healthy cooking and dealing with challenging behaviour. Many wanted to improve their own wellbeing and do things that would make family life a bit easier.
As one parent explained: “It can be lonely being a parent and this group helps you deal with that.” The group has become a safe space where parents can share experiences without judgment. “We know what we kind of say in here, it stays in here… you don’t feel alienated, you don’t feel judged, you feel supported.”
Friendships have formed quickly, and the sessions have become something they look forward to each week. This sense of belonging has helped reduce isolation and given the parents confidence to speak openly about some of the challenges they face.
The course taught practical strategies for managing stress and practicing self-care. Parents shared how they’ve learned ways to help themselves in situations they’d previously found difficult and stressful. They were full of suggestions:
“I take myself away from stressful situations now and reset.”
“I used to sit in a dark room before. Now I go for a walk and clear my head.”
“Focusing on my breathing helps me a lot.”
“I take a bit of time out to drink a glass of water. It makes me stop and focus on me.”
These changes have improved the mental health of those on the course, as well as creating healthier routines for all their family members family back home. One parent said: “It has given me tools and techniques to deal with challenging situations – not just for me but for my child. It’s helped a lot.”
Cooking sessions taught healthy eating habits, while advice from tutors helped with parenting challenges. For example, one parent tried a technique suggested by the tutor: “The tutor told me to give my child a cushion to hit when they were angry – and it’s really worked. He can get rid of his anger without hurting anyone – including himself.” These practical tips have helped reduce stress at home and improved family relationships.
Tutors like Pam, Shannon, Sue, and Lauren were praised for creating a welcoming, learner-centred environment. “Pam gave advice, helped us out, and understood our challenges as a parent because she had children herself. She’s got that first-hand experience and knows what works.”
The group now feels stronger, more confident, and better equipped to handle life’s challenges. They’ve built friendships, reduced their anxiety, and learned skills that benefit their families. As one parent said: “It makes me feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders.”